DIAMOND CUTS EXPLAINED
ROUND DIAMONDS
The Round Cut diamond is by far the most popular shape available today. To maximize the brilliance of a Round Cut diamond, select one in the highest cut grades – ideal or very good. Also select excellent or very good polish and symmetry grades. For the most traditional Round Cut diamond look for a length to width ration of between 1.33 and 1.66. The Round Brilliant Cut is popular for many reasons, one being that it provides exceptional brilliance and a classic, ageless look. Round Brilliant Cut diamonds are stunning choices for engagement rings, necklaces and other fine pieces.
CUSHION CUT DIAMONDS
Cushion Cut diamonds are available in shapes ranging from square to rectangular. They have rounded corners and larger facets which increase their brilliance. For a square Cushion Cut diamond, look for a length to width ration of between 1.00 to 1.05. For a rectangular shape, look for a length to width ration greater than 1.15. With many cut options, choosing a Cushion Diamond offers creativity and personalisation. Cushions also have the luxurious appeal of a classic fashion along with modern fire and flair.
HEART SHAPED DIAMONDS
The Heart Shaped diamond is the ultimate symbol of love. The length to width ration will determine the diamonds outline (or how it would look from above). For a more traditional “hearty shape” diamond, look for a length to width ration of between 0.90 and 1.10. In addition to being a sign of romance, the Heart Shaped Diamond requires a premium cut, prolonging and possibly increasing its value over time.
EMERALD CUT DIAMONDS
What makes the Emerald Cut different is that it’s pavilion is cut with rectangular facets to create a unique optical appearance. If you would prefer an Emerald Cut with a squared outline, look for an Asscher Cut diamond. The length to width ration will determine the diamond’s outline. For a classic Emerald Cut, look for a length to width ration of between 1.30 and 1.40. Most notably, the Emerald Cut showcases size better than other diamonds of the same carat. Emerald Cuts are a premium choice for those desiring a larger piece without an enormous price tag.
PRINCESS CUT DIAMONDS
This is our most popular non-round diamond shape, especially for engagement rings. The Princess Cut has pointed corners and is traditionally square in shape. For a square Princess Cut diamond, look for a length to width ration of between 1.00 and 1.05. For a rectangular shape, look for a length to width ration that is greater than 1.10. The Princess Cut allows for a square outline while still offering nearly the same brilliance as the Round Brilliant Cut. Due to the larger yield maintained from cutting for a Princess, the price per carat is usually much lower than the Round Cut.
MARQUISE CUT DIAMONDS
The shape of a Marquise Cut can maximize the carat weight, resulting in a much larger looking diamond. This Brilliant Cut diamond looks beautiful with Round or Pear shaped side stones. The length of the cut makes fingers look long and slender. For the most traditional Marquise Cut diamonds, look for a length to width of 1.75 to 2.25. he Marquise’s elongated figure gives the appearance of a larger stone when compared to other shapes in the same carat. Making the fingers of the wearer look thinner and longer, the Marquise shines brightly and is usually noticed for its unique shape.
RADIANT CUT DIAMONDS
Trimmed corners are the signature of Radiant Cut diamonds which look beautifully set with either baguette or round side diamonds. For a square Radiant Cut diamond, look for a length to width ratio of between 1.00 and 1.05. For a rectangular shape Radiant Cut diamond, look for a length to width ratio that is greater than 1.10. Radiant’s are formed with many facets and angles, making them appear almost like cracked ice. Because of this, flaws and inclusions are easily hidden. The bevelled corners of Radiant Cuts allow for more stability—making it a wise choice for those with an active lifestyle.
TRILLION CUT DIAMONDS
Trillion Diamonds, also known as trilliant diamonds, are incredibly enchanting and unique. Different than round, square or rectangular shapes, the Trillion almost always makes an impression. The ideal length to width ratio for a Trillion is 1.0-1.10. The personality of the Trillion is perhaps its strongest asset. The sharp, unique features create a dashing look, maximized by the Trillion’s immense width. For this reason, Trillions tend to look larger than other diamonds of the same carat weight.
OVAL CUT DIAMONDS
Oval Cut diamonds have a long history, dating back as early as 1304. Today, they’re making a strong comeback and are a popular choice, particularly if you’d like your finger to appear longer and slimmer. Like round diamonds, ovals cut in the brilliant style exhibit excellent fire and brilliance. While always dependent on personal preference, the Oval Cut diamond is often appealing in a length to width ratio of 1.30-1.50. This fancy length diamond is durable because it carries no pointed edges. Ovals also have a lower price point than Brilliant Round Cuts while still maintaining the curved shape.
PEAR CUT DIAMOND
The Pear Cut is also known as a teardrop for its single point and rounded end. For the most traditional Pear Cut diamond, look for a length to width ration of between 1.45 and 1.75. The Pear Cut diamond is ideally suited to pendants and earrings as the shape accentuates the heck-line as well as the Décolletage area (a term used in woman's fashion referring to the upper part of a woman's torso, comprising her neck, shoulders, back and upper chest). The Pear Shaped also hides inclusions well.